Phase 1: The Essential Downloads
Before you plug anything in, ensure your digital environment is safe.
- Go to the Source: Visit Ledger.com/start to download the Ledger Live desktop or mobile application.
- Avoid Phishing: Never download "Ledger" apps from unofficial third-party sites or Chrome extensions. Ledger Live is the only official interface.
- The Genuine Check: Once installed, Ledger Live will perform a cryptographic "Genuine Check" to ensure your device hasn't been tampered with in the supply chain.
Phase 2: Device Initialization
Once you connect your Ledger via USB-C (or Bluetooth for the Nano X/Stax), follow the prompts on the device screen.
1. Set Your PIN Code
- Choose a PIN between 4 and 8 digits.
- Security Tip: Avoid obvious patterns ( or ).
- This PIN is required every time you turn on the device. After 3 incorrect attempts, the device automatically wipes itself as a security measure.
2. Generate Your Recovery Phrase (The "Master Key")
The device will display 24 random words one by one.
- Write them down on the physical recovery sheets provided in the box.
- Verification: You will be asked to confirm the words on the device to prove you recorded them accurately.
- The Golden Rule: Never digitize these words. No photos, no cloud storage, no text files. If these words are typed into a computer, your "Cold Wallet" becomes a "Hot Wallet," and your security is compromised.
Phase 3: Managing Your Assets
Your Ledger device doesn't "store" coins; it stores the private keys that allow you to move them on the blockchain.
- Install Apps: Use the "My Ledger" tab in Ledger Live to install apps for specific blockchains (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana).
- Add Accounts: Once an app is installed, click "Add Account" to generate your public deposit address.
- Receive Crypto: Copy your address from Ledger Live, but always verify it on the physical device screen before sending funds. This protects you against "clipboard hijacking" malware.
3 Critical Security Rules for 2026
| Rule | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Trust the Device Screen | Your computer screen can be lied to by hackers; your Ledger screen cannot. |
| No Digital Copies | 99% of hardware wallet hacks happen because the 24-word phrase was saved on a phone or computer. |
| Firmware Updates | Always keep your device updated via Ledger Live to stay ahead of new exploit methods. |
Comparison of Ledger Models
| Feature | Nano S Plus | Nano X | Ledger Stax / Flex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connection | USB-C Only | USB-C & Bluetooth | USB-C, Bluetooth, NFC |
| Battery | No | Yes | Yes (Wireless Charging) |
| Screen | Standard OLED | Standard OLED | E-Ink Touchscreen |
| Best For | Desktop HODLers | Mobile/On-the-go | Power Users / NFTs |